Myanmar’s Taninthayi Region to Expand Coffee Plantations by 1,000 Acres in 2025–2026

Taninthayi, The Gulf Observer: The Taninthayi Region Agriculture Department has announced plans to expand coffee plantations by 1,000 acres in the upcoming 2025–2026 financial year, citing Robusta coffee as a promising commercial crop for the region.

With its favourable climate, land conditions, and abundant water sources, Taninthayi has long been known for its cultivation of rubber, oil palm, and coconut. Now, thanks to these natural advantages, Robusta coffee is being increasingly promoted as a high-potential crop for both local consumption and export.

Ongoing Expansion and Support for Farmers

“In the 2024–2025 financial year, we successfully expanded coffee plantations by 1,874 acres, bringing the total area under cultivation to 3,022 acres,” said an official from the Agriculture Department.
“Of this, Myeik District contributed 940 acres, raising its total to 1,200 acres. For the upcoming year, we plan to add 1,000 more acres region-wide, including 500 acres in Myeik.”

To support the expansion, the department has already prepared 170,000 coffee seedlings, which will be distributed free of charge to farmers. In addition to seedlings, farmers are receiving ongoing technical guidance on best practices — including soil management, suitable seed varieties, pest control, and planting methods — through district and township agricultural offices.

Planting and Harvest Timeline

Coffee planting in Taninthayi begins with the onset of the rainy season in June. The trees begin bearing fruit in their fourth or fifth year, with harvesting typically occurring between December and January. Notably, the region’s locally grown coffee is already making its way into international markets.

Integrated Farming and Livelihood Improvement

To maximize land-use efficiency and increase farmers’ income, coffee is also being intercropped with perennial crops such as rubber and areca palm. This approach not only diversifies farmers’ income sources but also contributes to job creation and local economic development.

Coffee plantations in Myeik District have already been established in Taninthayi, Mawtaung, and Bokpyin townships, with continued expansion targeted in these areas.

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

The Agriculture Department is committed to enhancing livelihoods, improving rural economies, and elevating Myanmar’s coffee industry to international standards. Farmers are encouraged to stay in touch with local offices for continuous support and training as the region builds a more sustainable and profitable agricultural future.